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Saudi Arabia transformational efforts, supported by every drop of oil economy, became recently famous of its aspirations to become the Middle Eastern tiger. Road to success is much easier though, after all, Dubai mapped out the path some 25 years ago. But how will Saudi Arabia bridge the gap from being one of the most conservative places on the planet to transforming into a new Palm Island?Let's take a peek at the progress ourselves during our weekend in Riyadh and its surroundings!
Many tourists, familiar with Middle East, would avoid Riyadh, famous for high rise buildings and overwhelming traffic but this is a real heart of Saudi economy. Besides striving for prosperity, the city, once known as Hajr, boasts a storied history that spans centuries, with traces of human settlement dating back to ancient times. Its significance soared in the 15th century when it emerged as the capital of the first Saudi state, under the rule of the Al Saud dynasty.
However, it faced adversity in the late 18th century when it fell to Ottoman forces, enduring destruction before being rebuilt by the resilient Al Sauds. This pattern of rise and fall continued until Riyadh's pivotal role in the establishment of modern Saudi Arabia in 1932, solidifying its status as the nation's capital. Today, Riyadh stands as a dynamic metropolis, blending the echoes of its past with the aspirations of the present.
Nestled amidst the rugged terrain northwest of Riyadh lies the mesmerizing wonder Jebel Fihrayn, known as the Edge of the World. Here, towering cliffs rise majestically from the desert floor, offering a breathtaking views that stretch endlessly into the horizon. These cliffs are made up of sedimentary rocks, primarily limestone and sandstone, sculpted over millions of years by erosion and geological processes, revealing a dramatic panorama that defies description.
Further north-west you'll encounter Ushaiqer, a quaint relic of ancient Arabia. Once a vital stopover for pilgrims journeying westward, Ushaiqer now stands as a testament to bygone eras, its mud houses and deserted alleyways echoing with whispers of centuries past. As efforts to preserve its cultural heritage continue, Ushaiqer offers a glimpse into Saudi Arabia's history, with each restored building and museum exhibit breathing new life into its faded glory.
So get ready to explore and make up your mind about whether Riyadh will ever become the new Dubai!
Let's go!
DAY 1 // Friday
Evening flight to Riyadh, arrival to Kingdom, drive to mud built heritage village, place reconstructed thoroughly, that may occur similar to West Africa style. Overnight.
DAY 2 // Saturday
After breakfast, we will start with discovery of the village. We will surely get lost in the labyrinthic, mud alleys and enjoy all shades of grey becoming pink and orange as the sun ascents over our heads.
We hit the road to Edge of the World for Sunset Hike to Edge with a brief cave visit. Return To Riyadh, overnight.
DAY 3 // Sunday
Early start with Ad-Diriyah, where the Saudi dynasty began its history. Located in the eastern part of the Najd region, Wadi Hanifa, it is home to the Masmak Fort and the Al Diriyah Souq. The fort was built in the second half of the 19th century and played a significant role in the kingdom's history, as it was where Ibn Saud took power from his enemies in 1902. Next, to the At-Turaif historical district, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and then head to the Al Diriyah Souq for some abayas and scarf shopping.
After lunch we will head to Kingdom Tower sky bridge to check from a height of 300 mts how vast and huge Riyadh is!
If time allows, desert drive towards towards yet another curiosity - Pigeon Tower, a Timbuktu alike structure, consisting of 14 mud towers.
In the late afternoon return to airport for a flight back home.
Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, 4WD off-roading.
Grade: Easy, with short hike. Available to everyone.
Room & Meals: local guesthouse and hotel - double sharing. Meals excluded.
Cost: AED 3580 AED all-inclusive of flights until MARCH 20th.
Specifically Excluded:
Evisa,
Insurance,
Meals.
Visa:
Visas not included in the trip budget, UAE / GCC RESIDENTS can now obtain E-visa: https://visa.visitsaudi.com/.
It is sole responsibility of participant to secure admission to the country of destination.
See yah in Saudi x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / [email protected]
Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Dubai International Airport, غرفة صلاة متعددة الأديان, مطار دبي الدولي دبي, الإمارات العربية المتحدة,Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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